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Frankincense

The aromatic resin of the Boswellia tree was once considered more precious than gold, and it is the must-buy souvenir in Muscat, where you can smell it everywhere.

Mejor vista panorámica

Jebel Shams

The highest peak in Oman is also known as “Mountain of the Sun,” from which visitors look over an awe-inspiring canyon. It is located about 150 miles from Muscat near Al Hamra in the Al Hajar mountain range.

Mejor restaurante clásico

Kargeen Café

Guests choose from dozens of Arabic dishes (the mixed grill is delicious) and dine by lantern light and the wafting aromas of the shisha. Madinat Sultan Qaboos; (968-2) 469-2269; www.kargeencaffe.com.

Mejor cóctel con vista panorámica

Left Bank, Near Qurum Park

Mejor restaurante para una celebración

Mumtaz Mahal

The best Indian restaurant in Muscat, on a hill overlooking Qurum Nature Reserve, has live sitar performances, traditional seating at low tables and fantastic Northern Indian Mughal cuisine. Qurum; (968-2) 460-5907.

Mejor excursión de un día

Nizwa

Oman’s capital in the 6th and 7th centuries, Nizwa is a 90-minute drive from Muscat and affords visitors the chance to see renowned mosques—some built as early as 1000 AD. Its centerpiece is the 17th-century fort in the middle of the town.

Mejor secreto de la ciudad

The Royal Opera House

The stunning new opera house was built by royal decree by the Sultanate to pay tribute to Omani arts and culture, and brings in performances from all over the world. Few know that private tours are available. Shatti Al Qurum; (968-2) 440-3300; www.rohmuscat.org.

Mejor obra de arquitectura

The Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque

The massive grand mosque, with its soaring dome and minarets, is a landmark in Muscat. Perhaps equally awe-inspiring is its red, 21-ton prayer rug within—the second largest single-piece carpet in the world.